Wales YFC News

Rural Affairs Roadshow

Elanco Animal Health Talk

Wales YFC Rural Affairs Committee has had a very busy couple of months getting out and about at different events. Since our conference in early January, we held the first of our Elanco animal health talks. This was held at Pencoed Rugby club and was supported by members from Glamorgan, Gwent, and Carmarthenshire. This was an insightful and interactive evening discussing important animal health issues. The members found the evening very useful and informative.

Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol – Gelli Aur

February saw the start of not one but two conferences, the first was held at Gelli Aur College with Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol. Wales YFC were in attendance to promote to potential and current members what the federation has to offer. The conference was well attended by colleges from all over Wales and it was lovely to see speakers from Aberystwyth University, Coleg Gelli Aur and Melanie Owen to name a few.

Made With Wool Event

Before our next conference representatives from Wales YFC attended an event at the National Wool Museum, Llandysul organised by Gwnaed a Gwlan, Menter Mon. Four speakers from the World of wool gave an insight to how they use wool, from insulation to kitchen cutlery and clothing, the day definitely gave food for thought on how we can better market this amazing by-product.

NFU Conference

Next on our list was the NFU Conference at the ICC Birmingham, where five Wales YFC representatives attend the conference ‘Feeding a Changing World’ and we are very thankful to NFU Cymru for giving us the opportunity to be there. Over the jam-packed two days we had a chance to listen to very high-profile speakers to include Rt Hon Mark Spencer, Sir Keir Starmer, Prof. Tim Benton and many more. It was all chaired very professionally by NFU President Minette Batters and Deputy President Tim Bradshaw.

A session with Welsh Water

On Tuesday the 28th of February, the Wales YFC Rural Affairs committee held the first of their joint road show with Dŵr Cymru – Welsh Water, held at Monmouthshire livestock Market where members from Gwent and Glamorgan came together to learn about the working partnership between Wales YFC and Dŵr Cymru. They also learnt about the Water Champions scheme. A presentation was given on water catchment areas and an insight into the journey our water has before it comes through our taps. Speaking after the event, Emily Morgan, Glamorgan YFC told Wales YFC;

“It was great to learn about the importance of what Welsh Water do and how they work in conjunction with Farmers. The WaterSource Scheme looks to be an exciting opportunity for YFC members whether they are looking for a career in Welsh Water or even to enhance their CV”.

An evening with Oxbury Bank

On Monday the 6th of March, members gathered in the International Pavillion on the Royal Welsh Showground for an evening with Oxbury Bank. The evening commenced with informative talks from Oxbury staff, where they explained the opportunities available for our members, including their New Gen scheme. This was followed by an engaging Q&A session. It was fantastic to see so many members in attendance and we look forward to what the future of agriculture has instore.